Protecting civilians from which of the following is a primary objective of military operations?

Protecting civilians from deliberate slavery is a primary objective of military operations as it directly pertains to the prevention of severe human rights violations and atrocities. This objective aligns with the broader aims of international humanitarian law, which seeks to safeguard individuals during armed conflict. Deliberate slavery involves the coercion and exploitation of individuals, often in the context of armed violence, and military forces are tasked with the duty to protect those most vulnerable to such abuses.

Efforts to prevent and respond to deliberate slavery are integral to ensuring that civilians can live without the threat of being caught in oppressive and inhumane conditions. Military operations are designed not only to conduct combat missions but also to secure the safety of the population, uphold human dignity, and contribute to restoring order in conflict-affected areas.

While the other options describe forms of exploitation and manipulation, they do not necessarily rise to the same immediate level of concern in military operations as deliberate slavery, which reflects a blatant disregard for personal autonomy and dignity. Thus, the protection from deliberate slavery stands as a clear and pressing objective for military forces engaged in the protection of civilians.